A method for catalytic oxidation of cellulose using a heterocyclic nitroxyl radical as catalyst and main oxidant acting as oxygen source comprises, before the catalytic oxidation of the cellulose, pretreatment of the cellulose—in an alkaline pretreatment step, where the cellulose is treated in alkaline solution having hydroxide concentration of above 0.3 M, and—in a washing step, where the cellulose treated in the alkaline solution is washed to lower the pH.